What does 'Max Ordinate' refer to in terms of ballistics?

Max Ordinate refers to the highest point above the line of sight that the projectile will reach during its trajectory. Understanding this concept is essential for predicting and adjusting for bullet flight paths, especially in long-range shooting scenarios. When a projectile is fired, it follows a curved trajectory due to gravity, and the max ordinate indicates the peak of this curve relative to the initial line of aim. Accurate knowledge of the max ordinate helps shooters make necessary adjustments for effective targeting, allowing for successful engagement of targets at varying distances. This aspect of ballistics is particularly important when considering factors such as bullet drop and windage, which can affect overall accuracy.